Termites and European house borer

Termites and European house borer are both destructive pests that feed on seasoned timber. If they are able to become established they can cause major structural damage to buildings.

Termites

Termites, or “white ants”, are a common pest throughout Australia and all new dwellings must incorporate a suitable termite barrier. Barriers must be applied during the construction of the dwelling and could include one or more of the following:

Chemical barriers, such as a chemical spray to the underside of the slab;

Physical barriers, such as a steel mesh underlay beneath the slab;

Termite resistant materials, such as brick or steel framing in lieu of timber components.

The National Construction Code requires that a durable notice be permanently fixed to the building in a prominent location, such as inside the meter box, outlining the methods used, date of installation, life expectancy and any maintenance requirements. Some methods require ongoing maintenance or renewal to ensure the barrier remains effective.

For more information about termites and termite control methods for buildings, refer to the Related Links below.

European house borer

European house borers (EHB) are a flying pest that has been identified in specific zones in Western Australia. These zones are known as Restricted Movement Zones (RMZs), meaning structural timber cannot be used within or transported through them unless it is suitably treated. There are a number of RMZs located within the City of Gosnells.

EHB are much like termites, but as they can fly most soil treatments and physical barriers prove ineffective. The following solutions are effective against EHB:

Borer resistant materials, such as brick or steel framing in lieu of timber components; or

Use of minimum H2 treated timber for primary building elements.

For more information about European house borer, or to find out if your property is in a restricted movement zone, refer to the Related Links below.